Cisco C6800IA-48TD Catalyst

Cisco Catalyst C6800IA-48TD – Enterprise-Class Fabric Extender Overview

The Cisco Catalyst C6800IA-48TD is a high-performance Instant Access (IA) switch that functions as a fabric extender within the Cisco Catalyst 6800 Series architecture. Purpose-built for large-scale enterprise and campus networks, this switch offers a unique blend of operational simplicity, scalability, and centralized management.

Unlike traditional standalone switches, the C6800IA-48TD acts as a remote line card for a parent switch—typically a Cisco Catalyst 6500 or 6800 series switch with Supervisor 2T or 6T engines—allowing all configurations, software management, and monitoring to be handled from a single point. By extending the control plane of the parent chassis to the edge, this switch ensures consistent policy enforcement, software versioning, and network visibility, regardless of the physical location of the deployed device.

As part of Cisco’s Instant Access architecture, it transforms complex multi-device environments into a unified system, simplifying administrative overhead and reducing the total cost of ownership (TCO). Organizations no longer need to configure each access switch individually—firmware upgrades, security policies, VLANs, and QoS settings are pushed directly from the core switch.

The C6800IA-48TD leverages the proven features of the Catalyst 6500 and 6800 platforms, including robust Layer 2 and Layer 3 services, advanced security, and seamless integration with Cisco DNA and Software-Defined Access (SD-Access) solutions. This makes it an ideal component in modern, policy-driven enterprise networks where centralized management and simplified operations are critical. With 48 Gigabit Ethernet downlink ports and 2 high-speed 10 Gigabit SFP+ uplinks, this switch provides the bandwidth and reliability needed for high-density deployments.

It supports rack-mountable 1RU installation, making it suitable for space-constrained environments like wiring closets, remote offices, or edge data center racks. Ultimately, the Cisco Catalyst C6800IA-48TD is designed to extend the intelligence, security, and flexibility of the core network to the access layer, enabling organizations to deploy new services faster, improve performance, and simplify day-to-day operations across geographically distributed networks.

Key Features and Capabilities

The C6800IA-48TD operates as a remote line card that is managed centrally by a parent switch, typically a Catalyst 6500 or 6800 series supervisor. This model supports Instant Access (IA), meaning configuration, management, and software upgrades are all handled by the parent chassis — delivering a true single point of control.

• Ports: 48× 10/100/1000 Mbps Ethernet ports + 2× 10G SFP+ uplink ports

• Management: Fully managed via parent switch using Instant Access

• Form Factor: Fixed configuration, 1RU rack-mountable

• Power Options: Supports redundant power supplies (AC/DC)

• Software Image: Operates with Cisco IOS via supervisor (no standalone image)

Scalability and Simplified Management

One of the primary advantages of the Cisco C6800IA-48TD is its scalability. By functioning as a distributed line card, it allows organizations to scale their campus networks seamlessly without increasing operational complexity. All configurations and software updates are pushed from the core supervisor, enabling zero-touch provisioning at the edge.

High Availability and Redundancy

The switch supports field-replaceable power supplies and fans, with options for AC and DC redundancy, ensuring maximum uptime in mission-critical environments. Its integration with the parent switch also means the control plane remains centralized and resilient.

Energy Efficiency

Equipped with Cisco EnergyWise technology, the C6800IA-48TD helps businesses reduce power consumption by monitoring and controlling energy usage across the network infrastructure. This feature aligns with sustainability goals and lowers operating expenses.

Common Use Cases

• Enterprise Campus Networks: Ideal for extending centralized control to access-layer switches in wiring closets and branch locations.

• Data Centers: Perfect for scalable top-of-rack deployment with central management and consistent policy enforcement.

• Branch Offices: Efficiently connects remote locations without requiring local configuration or management.

Why Choose the Cisco C6800IA-48TD?

Organizations looking for a cost-effective, scalable, and centrally managed solution will benefit from deploying the C6800IA-48TD. With centralized control, high port density, and integration into the Cisco Digital Network Architecture (DNA), it ensures seamless policy enforcement, security, and performance across the entire enterprise network.

This model provides the ideal foundation for a distributed access architecture, while maintaining the manageability and reliability of a unified core.

You can also visit the manufacturer’s website link for more information.

You can also visit the C1-WS3650-48FD/K9 , C9300-48UXM-E , Catalyst Switches pages if you wish.